Comments on President Trump cutout cause stir at ODU

The cutout at Old Dominion University was covered with comments about the president, ranging from calling him a "liar" and a "racist", to more vulgar terms.

Author:
Chenue Her

Published:
10:32 AM EDT September 1, 2017

Updated:
10:32 AM EDT September 1, 2017

NORFOLK, Va. (WVEC) -- Some Old Dominion University students were angered by a President Donald Trump cardboard cutout on campus earlier this week.

The cutout was covered with comments about the president, ranging from calling him a "liar" and a "racist," to more vulgar terms.

ODU issued the following statement:

"It is our understanding that a student group had an activity that involved posting comments about President Trump this week and has since decided to stop the activity and focus on policy issues. While as a state institution of higher education, Old Dominion cannot restrict free speech, we foster a climate that encourages civility and respect, which will be part of our CommUNITY Forum scheduled for September 7."

A student who spoke with 13News Now posted a picture of the cutout on Facebook.

She said it was upsetting and inappropriate to see it in the Webb Center. Others on campus agreed.

"It should've been taken down immediately before anybody got a hold of it," said sophomore Stephen Davis.

There were others who said it's free speech and it encouraged conversation.

"Universities are a place for being open about ideas and have these kinds of discussions. There are a lot of uncomfortable conversations we have in class, on campus, and as a community," said Joshua Bolton, a junior.